In the world of television, few shows have made as significant an impact as "What's Happening!" This beloved sitcom, which aired from 1976 to 1979, captured the hearts of viewers with its relatable characters and humorous take on everyday life. As we delve into the lives of the "What's Happening" cast and explore where they are now, we will uncover the journeys of these talented actors and actresses who brought the show to life.
Originally created as a spin-off of the show "Good Times," "What's Happening!" provided a unique perspective on the African American experience during the late 1970s. The series focused on a group of friends navigating adolescence in Los Angeles, tackling issues of friendship, family, and the challenges of growing up. Its cultural significance cannot be understated, and the show's legacy continues to resonate with audiences today.
In this article, we will take a comprehensive look at the cast of "What's Happening!" and their careers post-show. From their acting endeavors to their personal lives, we aim to provide a detailed update on where the original cast members are now, highlighting their accomplishments and contributions to the entertainment industry.
Table of Contents
- Biographies of the Main Cast
- Cast Updates: Where Are They Now?
- Dwayne: The Charismatic Lead
- Rerun: The Dance Sensation
- Shirley: The Heart of the Group
- Raj: The Dreamer
- Cast Reunion and Legacy
- Conclusion
Biographies of the Main Cast
The main cast of "What's Happening!" included several talented actors whose performances left a lasting impression. Below is a brief biography of each of the key cast members:
| Name | Character | Birthdate | Notable Works |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ernest Lee Thomas | Dwayne Nelson | March 26, 1950 | What's Happening Now!!, The Love Boat |
| Fred Berry | Rerun | March 19, 1951 | What's Happening Now!!, The Brady Bunch |
| Danielle Spencer | Dee Thomas | May 6, 1965 | What's Happening Now!!, The Great Gilly Hopkins |
| Haywood Nelson | Raj Thomas | March 25, 1965 | What's Happening Now!!, The Love Boat |
| Mabel King | Shirley Wilson | December 25, 1932 | The Wiz, The Muppet Show |
Cast Updates: Where Are They Now?
After the show concluded, the cast members embarked on various paths, both in their careers and personal lives. Below, we dive deeper into individual updates on these iconic actors.
Dwayne: The Charismatic Lead
Ernest Lee Thomas, known for his role as Dwayne Nelson, has had a diverse career in the entertainment industry. After "What's Happening!" he continued acting, appearing in various television shows and movies. Notably, he reprised his role in the sequel series, "What's Happening Now!!" in the late 1980s.
Currently, Thomas is active in the Hollywood scene, participating in various interviews and panel discussions. He has also made guest appearances on shows like "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air" and "The Love Boat." He remains a beloved figure among fans and often reflects on his time on the show.
Rerun: The Dance Sensation
Fred Berry, who played the unforgettable character Rerun, was not only an actor but also an accomplished dancer. Following "What's Happening!" Berry continued to work in television, landing roles in series such as "The Brady Bunch Hour" and "The Redd Foxx Show." He also pursued a career in stand-up comedy.
Tragically, Berry passed away in 2003, but his legacy as a comedic icon and a talented performer lives on. He is remembered fondly by fans for his unique style and charisma that brought Rerun to life.
Shirley: The Heart of the Group
Mabel King, who portrayed the matriarch Shirley Wilson, was a powerhouse in the entertainment industry. After "What's Happening!" she starred in the Broadway production of "The Wiz," earning critical acclaim for her performance. King also appeared in various films and television shows, including "The Muppet Show."
King's contributions to theater and television have left an indelible mark, and she is remembered as a talented actress who broke barriers during her time. She passed away in 1999, but her legacy continues to inspire performers today.
Raj: The Dreamer
Haywood Nelson, who played Raj Thomas, has also enjoyed a successful career post-"What's Happening!" After the show concluded, he appeared in several television series, including "The Love Boat" and "227." Nelson has also worked behind the scenes in production and directing.
Currently, he is involved in various charitable endeavors and often speaks at events to share his experiences in the entertainment industry. Nelson remains a beloved figure, known for his positive spirit and dedication to his craft.
Cast Reunion and Legacy
The cast of "What's Happening!" has had occasional reunions over the years, celebrating their time together and the impact the show had on viewers. These reunions not only serve as a nostalgic trip down memory lane for fans but also highlight the strong bonds formed among the cast members.
In recent years, the show's legacy has been celebrated through various media, including documentary features and retrospectives that dive into its cultural significance. The themes explored in "What's Happening!" remain relevant today, resonating with new generations of viewers.
Conclusion
The journey of the "What's Happening!" cast is a testament to their talent and the lasting impact of the show. While each member has taken a unique path since the series concluded, they all share a common bond through their experiences on this iconic sitcom. From Dwayne's vibrant personality to Rerun's unforgettable dance moves, the characters they portrayed continue to live on in the hearts of fans.
As we reflect on the legacy of "What's Happening!" we invite you to share your favorite moments from the show in the comments below. Don't forget to share this article with fellow fans and stay tuned for more updates on your favorite classic television series!
Thank you for taking the time to explore the lives of the "What's Happening!" cast with us. We hope to see you back here for more engaging content in the future!
